Some guests learned the hard way Saturday when they were left on the outside looking in at the palatial mansion where the rapper's annual Roc Nation brunch was held.

Most of the guests were bused to the secret location of the swanky bash — a private gated mansion. But it proved to be so popular that authorities prevented some guests from coming inside after a certain point because of overcrowding concerns.

Those who were lucky enough to make it in were rewarded. Jay Z, dressed in a suit and smoking a cigar, hugged his protégés Rihanna and Rita Ora and mingled with guests inside the stunning estate, which included fountains, a majestic pool, mouthwatering spread, free flowing drinks and a cigar station. Other guests included Will Smith's children Jaden and Willow Smith, Ne-Yo, as well as rappers T.I., J. Cole and Wale.

Jay Z's annual brunch was just one of several events held on the eve of the Grammys. The Recording Academy had its own brunch with Janelle Monae at the Grammy Museum, where the singer performed for an audience that included schoolchildren and Make-A-Wish kids.

And Lorde, Robin Thicke and others performed at a brunch held by Universal Music Group.

Rihanna, Shakira, Timbaland and Haim are some of the musicians managed by Roc Nation.

Jay Z is the most nominated artist at this year's Grammys, with nine. He and wife Beyonce are due to perform at Sunday's show at the Staples Center.

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Follow Nekesa Mumbi Moody at twitter.com/NekesaMumbi

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